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  Certification in your profession can benefit you and your employer. The most recognized certifications in the human resources (HR) field are: Professional in Human Resources (PHR®) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR®). You can earn these designations through the HR Certification Institute. These certifications can be obtained through the HR Certification Institute by passing a 225-question multiple choice examination. Tests cost $250 to $425, plus an application fee, depending on credential and association membership discounts. To be eligible to take the exam, the individual must have demonstrated HR experience and education, levels of each depending on the desired credential.

  Certification in HR shows that you have experience in the field, advanced knowledge of HR principles and are committed to your industry. Certified HR employees have a greater selection of job opportunities.

Career Path

• Certification can help you advance your career in HR. The human resources career path usually begins with the HR assistant or generalist position. Typically you do not need more than an associate's or bachelor’s degree. Moving to the next level in human resources, as a recruiting specialist or HR manager, often requires certification or an advanced degree. HR certification is typically required for advanced management positions. Certification is valued by HR leadership and can propel you to a high level by demonstrating your commitment to human resources. In addition, the job salary may be higher if you have HR certification.

Candidate Marketability

• The HR professional with a PHR or SPHR certification is marketable. HR certification shows the candidate has at least two years of HR experience and successfully passed a certification exam. Doors that may not otherwise be opened may open up if the employer requires its HR professionals to be certified. Many companies utilize electronic screening of resumes and will immediately recognize the PHR® or SPHR® credential on a candidate’s resume and escalate that person to the top of the candidate list. Certification gives the HR professional seeking employment a clear edge over an uncertified candidate.

Benefits for Employers

• Hiring an employee with HR certification means that the employee has proven his dedication to the field. He has chosen to advance his knowledge of human resources concepts, issues and laws. The commitment to the field is further extended by completing continuing education courses to maintain the HR certification. Having an HR certified employee means that he will be aware of the latest industry trends and new information in the human resources field. The certified employee is better equipped to handle complex HR situations which may lead to quicker resolution of issues and avoidance of lawsuits. In addition, a certified professional may make better staffing decisions and assemble a strong team within HR, leading to less employee turnover, thereby saving the company money by hiring the right candidates and eliminating the waste of training ill-suited candidates.